If you’re in Missouri, it’s time to get prepared—a major winter storm is here, and it’s bringing heavy snow, frigid temperatures, and icy roads that will make driving extremely difficult.
The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings across the state, warning that snow will keep falling overnight with up to 6 inches of accumulation in some areas. Temperatures will drop below zero, which means any slush or wet roads will turn into solid ice by morning.
If you don’t absolutely need to be on the roads, staying home is your best bet.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Snow is already covering roads across Missouri, and the bitter cold is settling in fast. Driving conditions are getting worse by the hour as snowfall picks up and temperatures drop.
Here’s how things look across the state this afternoon:
- St. Louis, MO – 7°F (-14°C), steady light snow, roads getting slick
- Kansas City, MO – 1°F (-17°C), light snow, wind chills below zero
- Springfield, MO – 14°F (-10°C), moderate to heavy snow, worsening travel conditions
- Columbia, MO – 2°F (-16°C), cloudy with snow showers, extreme cold moving in
- Jefferson City, MO – Snow-covered roads, with more snowfall expected overnight
If you have plans to travel tonight or early Wednesday morning, expect delays and hazardous conditions.
How Long Will This Storm Last?
- Tuesday Afternoon – Evening: Snow will continue to fall across Missouri, making roads more dangerous by the hour. Temperatures will stay well below freezing, so melting won’t happen anytime soon.
- Tuesday Night – Early Wednesday: This is the worst period for travel. Snow will fall heavily at times, visibility will be low, and roads will be snow-packed and icy. On top of that, temperatures will plummet, making any slush freeze solid.
- Wednesday Morning: Snow finally tapers off, but roads will still be icy and treacherous. If you’re heading out early, expect slow, slippery, and potentially dangerous driving conditions.
How Much Snow Are We Getting?
- St. Louis, Columbia, Jefferson City: 3 to 5 inches, plus bitter cold.
- Kansas City & Western Missouri: 4 to 6 inches, with dangerous wind chills down to -15°F (-26°C).
- Springfield & Southern Missouri: 5 to 7 inches, with wind-driven snow causing drifts.
- Higher Elevations (Ozark Plateau): 6 to 8 inches, with strong winds making roads nearly impassable in some areas.
Even if your area doesn’t see the heaviest snow, ice and extreme cold will be a major problem—especially for anyone driving early Wednesday morning.
Biggest Concerns: What You Need to Watch Out For
Extremely Slick Roads – Snow is sticking immediately, and subzero temperatures will turn any moisture into ice. Roads will be extremely slick overnight into Wednesday morning.
Brutal Cold & Dangerous Wind Chills – Wind chills will make it feel as low as -15°F (-26°C) in some areas, which means frostbite can happen in less than 30 minutes on exposed skin.
Blowing Snow & Whiteout Conditions – Winds up to 25 mph will create snow drifts, reducing visibility and making travel dangerous—especially on highways and rural roads.
Possible Power Outages – Heavy, wet snow could take down tree limbs and power lines, leading to scattered power outages in some areas.
Pets & Livestock at Risk – If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Bring pets inside, and make sure livestock have adequate shelter and access to unfrozen water.
Weather Alerts You Should Know About
Winter Storm Warning – In effect until 6 AM Wednesday for most of Missouri. Expect heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous road conditions.
Wind Chill Advisory – Wind chills as low as -15°F in some areas will make outdoor exposure dangerous.
Travel Advisory – Snow-covered roads and freezing temps will make travel extremely difficult overnight into Wednesday morning.
How to Stay Safe During This Winter Storm
Stay Off the Roads If You Can – Driving will be extremely dangerous. If you must travel, go slow, take it easy on the brakes, and pack an emergency kit with blankets, snacks, and a phone charger.
Dress for the Extreme Cold – If you need to be outside, layer up, wear thick gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Limit time outdoors to prevent frostbite.
Check on Elderly Neighbors & Family Members – Make sure they have heat, food, and everything they need before the worst of the storm arrives.
Keep Pets Inside – If you’re cold, they’re cold. Bring them inside and make sure outdoor animals have proper shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Prepare for Power Outages – Charge your phone now, have flashlights ready, and stock up on extra blankets in case of power outages overnight. DO NOT use generators or grills indoors—they can be deadly.
